How Did Sabina, the Daughter of a Daily-Wager, Win Three Medals at KIYG 2025?

New Delhi, May 9 (NationPress) Sabina Kumari began her journey on a humble path in the Chatra district of Jharkhand, far from the facilities of an indoor velodrome. On Friday, the 18-year-old daughter of a daily wage earner and a housewife clinched three medals in cycling at her debut in the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG).

Sabina secured gold medals in the girls' Keirin and Team Sprint events, along with a bronze in the 200m Sprint.

"This is my first Khelo India Youth Games, and I’m thrilled with my performance and the three medals. The individual Keirin was my standout event," the ecstatic trainee from the National Centre of Excellence shared with SAI Media.

Her journey is one of quiet resolve, concentration, and perseverance. "I have always remained focused and dedicated. Many girls in rural areas aspire to achieve but lack opportunities. I want to encourage them to work hard and pursue their dreams, whether in sports or other fields," said the 18-year-old, a Khelo India Athlete (KIA).

Sabina's entry into the world of sports was serendipitous. "I was unaware of sports back then. My father submitted a form in 2017 under the Central Coalfields Ltd initiative of the Jharkhand Government. His intention was merely for me to secure a good life and education. That small act revolutionized my existence," Sabina recounted.

At 12, she ventured into cycling at the Jharkhand State Sports Promotion Society (JSPS) Academy in Ranchi. Under the mentorship of coach Ram Kapoor Bhatt, who himself is a multiple medalist from the 2011 National Games, Sabina was encouraged to explore sprinting due to her impressive instincts and agility.

"I was 13 in 2018 when I started training under Ram sir, and I never looked back," Sabina explained. By 2021, her consistent progress resulted in a gold and bronze at her inaugural national championship held in Jaipur. "That was my turning point, and I began to believe in my potential for greater accomplishments."

With her mother managing the household and her father working daily-wage jobs to support the family, pursuing a sports career seemed unrealistic. However, thanks to ongoing support from the Khelo India Scheme, Sabina discovered a platform to express herself. "The Khelo India Scheme is the cornerstone of my success today," she expressed.

In 2024, she earned her first international medal as part of the Indian team that secured sprint gold at the Asian Championships in Delhi. Currently, she trains at the SAI National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) IG Stadium under the guidance of French cycling legend Kevin Sireau, refining her technical skills. "He is an excellent mentor. My goal now is to represent India at the Olympics."

While completing her 12th-grade education through self-study, Sabina juggles her academics with rigorous training. She remains thankful for her roots and her first coach, Ram Bhatt. "There has been significant growth in cycling within Jharkhand. Approximately 25–30 children are now training under Ram Sir. He encourages all of us to excel. I am immensely grateful for his guidance at the right moment," she stated.